Yuheng (Oliver) Song

Yuheng (Oliver) Song travelled to Shanghai, China to conduct collaborative research as part of his PhD in Chemistry at the University of Waterloo. By choosing a partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University and using an International Experience Award, Yuheng had the chance to use advanced research instruments, allowing him to further his research and gain a deeper understanding of water's thermodynamic properties and their connection to hydrophobic effect and amyloid-related neuron degenerative diseases. He was able to exchange ideas and gain international research experience in a supportive setting. 

Yuheng (Oliver) details his accomplishments and how an international research experience helped him achieve his goals: 

“During my research placement, I gained extensive hands-on experience with advanced laboratory instruments that are not available at Waterloo. I learned new experimental techniques, improved my precision in data collection, and developed stronger troubleshooting skills through direct practice. Working in a different research environment also helped me adapt quickly to new workflows and collaborate effectively with local researchers.” 

Yuheng's favourite part of his travels was being able to gain direct hands-on access to advanced instrumentation while also learning new lab techniques from experienced researchers. Yuheng also enjoyed being able to see how research is organized and communicated in a different academic setting. 

Yuheng shares advice for other students seeking international experiences: “Take every opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn new experimental techniques. Working in a different lab environment can teach you practical skills that textbooks can’t—especially when you have access to instruments or methods unavailable at your home university. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and get involved in the day-to-day work; that’s where the most valuable learning happens. An international experience is not only about research, but also about growing as an independent and adaptable scientist.”